Four Oaks

Nestled within a serene stretch of Hope Ranch, 4225 Mariposa Drive features meticulous craftsmanship and offers nearly three acres of flat, usable land. A level lawn rolls uninterrupted from the historic, remodeled residence to a tennis court, a pool, rose gardens and a citrus allée, grounds meant to be enjoyed as much as admired.

As for the residence, designed in 1934 by celebrated Santa Barbara firm Edwards & Plunkett—architects of the famed Arlington Theatre—the property was commissioned by the family of a prominent Chicago banking scion, who gave the home its timeless moniker, “Four Oaks,” inspired by the prominent trees that still grace the property today. 

Since then, Four Oaks has continued to draw a cadre of legendary Santa Barbara figures, some of whom called it home, others simply captivated by it. Most notably, perhaps, culinary icon Julia Child chose Four Oaks as the location to film her 1980s television series, ”Dinner at Julia’s.” Homeowners have included Fess Parker, the well-known vintner, who played the title character in the “Davy Crockett” and “Daniel Boone” series.

Today, the residence is genuinely turnkey: a recent remodel thoughtfully updated the home for modern living without sacrificing the storied character. The six-bedroom, six-bath main residence centers on a large, sun-drenched living room with a covered patio and view of the sprawling grounds. Adjacent to the living room, a wood paneled library offers a space to work from home overlooking the sprawling, green grounds. Through a dining room and butler’s pantry, a bright, open chef’s kitchen–with double islands and a professional range–opens to a family room on one side and a trellised patio ready for outdoor dining on another. A separate wing includes four bedrooms, four full bathrooms and an exercise room, while upstairs, the primary suite earns its name with a sitting room, two large closets, a spacious bathroom and a covered deck looking out over the gardens, offering a private retreat. A detached guest house rounds out the accommodations at seven bedrooms and nearly 10,000 square feet. 

Residences where every acre is flat, sunlit, and usable almost never appear in Hope Ranch, and estates Julia Child chose to film a television series? That’s exceptionally rare.